Did you know it only takes 10 minutes for the inside of a vehicle to reach a temperature of 37 degrees if it is 26 degrees outside, even with the windows down?

Inside a vehicle can get unbearably hot for a dog, cat, or any animal that is left inside a vehicle on a day that is any warmer than 15 degrees.

Wayne Sum, an officer with Municipal Enforcement, strongly encourages people to leave their pets at home.

"Anything above 15 degrees is a concern. We would prefer that dogs aren't left in the vehicle at any time, if possible. Pet owners should really leave their pets at home."

Officer Sum adds that the temperature inside a vehicle can be fatal to an animal very quickly.

"If it's 26 outside, within your vehicle and within a 10-minute time period it can go up to about 37 degrees. 20 minutes it can go up to 42 and a half hour can go up to 46 degrees where you're looking at some critical damage to your animal."

Although there are good citizens out there that have the animals' best interest at heart, it's important to remember that it's illegal to break a vehicle's window if you are not a licensed veterinarian, vet technician, Peace Officer or RCMP member, and individuals who do so can be charged with property damage and possibly criminal charges.

Owners who do leave their pets in the vehicle can also be charged under the Animal Control Bylaw and Animal Protection Act.